15 athletes receive Elite Athlete Development Grants

INDIANAPOLIS – The USA Track & Field Foundation has presented Elite Athlete Development Grants to 15 athletes, USATF Foundation Executive Director Tom Jackovic announced on Friday.

Athletes receiving $4000 grants include heptathlete Diana Pickler, javelin thrower Mike Hazle, hammer thrower Travis Nutter, pole vaulter April Steiner, discus thrower Cecilia Barnes, discus thrower Stephanie Brown Trafton, triple jumper Shani Marks and 400-meter hurdler Laron Bennett.

Athletes receiving $3,000 grants include discus thrower hammer thrower Britney Henry, long jumper Shameeka Marshall, hammer thrower Bethany Hart, decathlete Ryan Harlan, 400m runner Jamaal Torrance, high jumper Jamie Nieto and 800m runner Morgan Uceny.

"It is incredibly gratifying to support these young adults who are not only amazing athletes, but are also first- class individuals," said Foundation Board member Jack Wickens. "I encourage other fans of this great sport to join us in helping America's athletes pursue their Olympic dream."

The USATF Foundation Elite Athlete Grant Program contributes to the pursuit of world-class performances by American post-collegiate track and field athletes. Athletes must meet minimum performance standards to be eligible.

The USATF Foundation provides a means to attract and guide funds to new and innovative track and field programs with an emphasis on providing opportunities for youth athletes, emerging elite athletes and anti-doping education. The Foundation depends on donations from its Board of Directors and from generous fans of track & field.

The Foundation assists people of all ages, all walks of life, and all ability levels in finding enjoyment and accomplishment and achieving fitness through our inclusive sport.

For more information or to contribute to the USA Track & Field Foundation, visit www.usatffoundation.org.